A performer number places a dentist on the NHS performers list in England and is the requirement for delivering NHS dental care. Without it, a dentist can only do private work.
The application involves references, checks and sometimes conditions, and the timing matters because NHS work cannot begin until it is in place.
The performer number is the dentist record on the NHS performers list for England. It is specific to the country: Scotland uses a list number, with a different process, while Wales and Northern Ireland each have their own arrangements.
The application requires supporting documents, references and occupational health and other checks the list requires. These are coordinated on the dentist behalf, and errors or missing evidence are the usual cause of delay.
Sometimes a performer number comes with conditions, such as a supervised period under Performer List Validation by Experience (PLVE). This is a normal step for some dentists. A supervisor is arranged, a portfolio is tracked, and the conditions are seen through to removal, ending in an unconditional number.
A performer number that is not ready when a dentist arrives means a costly gap with no NHS activity. A managed process lines up activation of the number with the dentist start date so NHS work can begin without delay.
Sourced from official bodies. Always check the source for the current position.
A dentist cannot claim NHS activity at your practice until their performer number is active. Tracking it protects:
Confirm the NHS role and provide your practice and contract details.
Prepares and tracks the performer number application and reports readiness for first NHS activity.
It is the record that places a dentist on the NHS performers list in England, which is required to deliver NHS dental care.
No. England uses a performer number. Scotland uses a list number with a different process, and Wales and Northern Ireland have their own arrangements.
Performer List Validation by Experience, a supervised route where conditions apply. A supervisor is arranged and the portfolio tracked through to an unconditional number.
By lining up activation of the number with the dentist start date, so NHS work can begin without a costly period of no activity.
Explore how Dentello manages performer numbers and conditions, or talk to the team.
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